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Why do locksmiths hate WD-40?

When faced with a stubborn lock, many homeowners reach for the blue and yellow cans of WD-40. Originally designed to stop corrosion on nuclear missiles, this multi-use lubricant has ended up in many toolboxes and kitchen cupboards. Many people think that because of its reputation as a universal fix, it’s the perfect solution for noisy or stucking door.

A professional locksmith for residential, on the other hand, sees the use of WD-40 in locks quite differently and not in a good way. When applied to locks, this well-known spray does more harm than good, even though it seems to fix the problem instantly.

Let’s take a look at why the very idea of locks and WD-40 makes locksmiths cringe.

The appeal of WD-40 for DIY lock maintenance

Using WD-40 on locks is risky and tricky, but it’s a common DIY fix for stuck or squeaky locks. Many homeowners do it because they are unaware of the issues with WD-40 in lock maintenance. The benefits are immediate: the noise goes away, and the lock glides smoothly. WD-40 is the go-to for those who don’t want to hire a professional because it’s easy to use and can be found at hardware stores and even supermarkets.
Its popularity is further boosted by its ease of use. Using WD-40 may seem more convenient than searching for and purchasing lock-safe lubricants that can’t usually be found in regular stores. However, there’s a price for that convenience.
While WD-40 vs lock-safe lubricants may seem like a small difference, the long-term effects on lock mechanisms can be big. The most concerning issue here is that your initial WD-40 fix masks the damage being done. The moment you see that something is wrong with your lock, you likely won’t realize it’s related to your previous use of the spray. You may then need to have it repaired by a professional or replace the lock (which is often necessary after regular use of the spray). When, after some time, your lock starts to show the first signs of damage or malfunction, you will use WD-40 again, closing this vicious circle unknowingly.

Why do locksmiths advise against using WD-40 on locks?

Locksmiths strongly advise against using WD-40 on locks due to several serious issues.
  1. Even if it looks good at first, there can be long-term problems. A lock may work smoother at first when you use WD-40, but it’s temporary. It attracts dust and debris into the lock mechanism over time with its sticky residue.
  2. The residue accumulation is one of the biggest risks of using WD-40 on locks. It can seriously damage lock parts, including cylinders, pins, and springs. The oil-based formula of WD-40 can wear down these delicate parts, compromise the lock.
  3. The residue can corrode metal parts and deteriorate plastic or rubber components within the lock.
  4. Plus, WD-40 blocks proper lubrication. It replaces the lock mechanism specific lubricant and makes the parts more prone to wear and friction.
lubricate a lock
lubricate a lock

How to lubricate your door locks properly?

The dangers of using WD-40 on locks go beyond temporary problems and can be serious. Internal component corrosion is one type of damage that can cause lock malfunction or total failure. Often this means a whole lock replacement which is an expensive outcome that could have been avoided. Homeowners can choose the best lock care for their locks by knowing these WD-40 issues in lock maintenance.
You need to use the right methods on locks to make them last and perform optimally. Locksmiths recommend using specialty lubricants made for locks, like silicone-based sprays or dry graphite powder, instead of WD-40. These lubricants work and don’t attract dirt or leave behind any harmful residues.
Use a soft brush or compressed air to remove any debris from the keyway. Don’t over-apply the lock-specific lubricant by using only a small amount. Your locks will last longer if you give them regular maintenance with the right supplies and that also means dependable performance.
Avoiding WD-40 in lock repairs is 50% of success. The rest involves following expert methods regularly.

Summing Up

Now that you know what is under the hood of WD-40, you may want to protect your locks with proper maintenance and Sure Lock & Key can assist you with that.
Our team of locksmiths is knowledgeable in lock care and can service all your door lock needs. Whether you need advice on what lubricants to use, need professional cleaning and maintenance or need a lock repair or replacement due to WD-40 damage, Sure Lock & Key is your go-to locksmith company.

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